Return to a sense of shared sacrifice

I wanted to share a couple of observations:

First, the intrepid souls who are gathering in the public square, mask-less, to protest the guidelines implemented to minimize harm to the population are behaving counterproductively. Repeated polls indicate the majority of folks favor and comply with wearing masks, social distancing and other measures imposed for the safety of themselves and their communities. The more prudent among us will hesitate to emerge into society as long as these people are congregating, spreading infection and endangering us all.

Second, the constant focus on the personal burdens imposed by guidelines and the assumption that we as humans are inherently rebellious, unruly and inclined to behave in irrational, selfish ways is troubling. Have we forgotten the determination and courage of our parents and grandparents who came together as a nation and a people to surmount the terrible burdens imposed by the Great War, the influenza pandemic of 1918-1919, the Great Depression, the Dust Bowl, World War II and the Great Recession of 2008?

Self-control, patriotism and common purpose were normalized during those times. Individual suffering is not to be minimized, but we elevated the assumption that we suffered hardships with determination, purpose and quiet pride for the good of our community.

The current normalization of assuming we are unable to bear our burdens with dignity and with some measure of selfrestraint, and the focus on individual frustration and need for immediate gratification, is disturbing. It infantilizes and excuses poor behavior and supports the notion that we are incapable of doing the right thing and acting like grown-ups.

If these troubling new “norms” prevailed during the trials of our recent generations, those trials would have sunk us. What we struggle for together unites us and becomes even more precious.

Cynthia tomaski Castleton on Hudson